Opiate Overdose

Question 1

Define:

Answer 1

Excessive opiate consumption

Question 2

Aetiology:

Answer 2

• Opiates have widespread effects across the body and side-effects can range from constipation to respiratory depression and death

Question 3

What are some opiate drugs:

Answer 3

o	Codeine 
o	Diamorphine 
o	Dihydrocodeine
o	Fentanyl
o	Loperamide 
o	Methadone 
o	Morphine
^analgesics 

+ Heroin

Question 4

Risk factors:

Answer 4

o	Mental health conditions 
o	Alcoholics 
o	Morphine toxicity at a lower dose due to:
•	Hepatic impairment
•	Renal impairment
•	Hypotension
•	Hypothyroidism
•	Asthma (decreased respiratory reserve)

Question 5

Epidemiology:

Answer 5

• The ELDERLY are at greater risk because they are more likely to be on opiates
• Heroin and morphine are responsible for most drug-related deaths

Question 6

Symptoms:

Answer 6

• Constipation (if chronic)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Sedation
• Craving the next dose
• Drowsiness (if acute overdose)
• Urticarial like rash with itching

Question 7

Signs:

Answer 7

• Respiratory depression
• Hypotension and tachycardia
• Pinpoint pupils

Question 8

Investigations:

Answer 8

• Toxicology screen
• Paracetamol blood level (should be considered in patients who have self-poisoned)
• If in doubt, give a small test dose of naloxone

Question 9

Treatment:

Answer 9

Naloxone